Luke Williams has valued midfielder Sam Austin as an important player for his Notts County side following his display against Chorley in the FA Trophy.
The 26-year-old has struggled to nail down a regular first-team place since his move from Kidderminster Harriers in the summer, but has impressed in recent weeks with another brilliant Magpies performance in their 2-1 win on Tuesday evening.
Austin was at the forefront of Notts' attacking play, producing a number of incisive passes in behind the Chorley defence, with one resulting in the second goal of the evening for the Magpies, with Scott Leather turning home Aaron Nemane's cross inside the box.
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It was further proof of the qualities the midfielder can bring to this Notts side, and Williams believes his recent form have shown great maturity as he eyes a place in the side for their National League fixture against Oldham on Boxing Day.
"I think that Sam has taken a step forward in recent weeks," explain Williams.
"He's always been an important player for us, but I think he is really starting to mature and grow into the side and tonight I thought he was excellent."
Another man who produced another impressive display was newest recruit John Bostock.
The experienced midfielder made his first start for the club since joining as a free agent earlier this month, and showcased his qualities with a composed performance that will certainly have the Notts fans excited as what is to come.
Bostock managed to play the entirety of the fixture for some much needed minutes in the tank as he returns to full fitness, and Williams revealed he may be feeling sore in the morning following his first 90 minutes since the end of April.
"We need to see how much John is capable of, and I think probably towards the end he is feeling very tired and tomorrow we will see how he is.
"I think it was important that he came through the game and he did very well."
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